240 HISTORY OF QUADRUPEDS 



all of which, as has been already observed, from 

 the Lion to the common Cat, we may perceive a 

 striking similitude in disposition, form and man- 

 ners. This agreement is likewise observable in 

 their internal conformation, which is still more 

 exact, in the shortness of their intestines, the 

 sharpness and number of their teeth, and in the 

 structure of their feet and claws. They are all 

 equally carnivorous, and tear, rather than chew 

 their meat. They eat slowly, and growl whilst 

 they feed, as if afraid of losing their prey. They 

 are all cowardly, and seldom make an attack but 

 where conquest is certain. 



Animals of this race may be considered as the 

 most formidable enemies of mankind. There are 

 others more powerful, but their dispositions are 

 milder, and they seldom offend till they feel them- 

 selves injured: others are more numerous, but they 

 are weaker, and find their safety, not in oppos- 

 ing, but in flying from man. These are the only 

 quadrupeds that in any degree make good their 

 ground against him, and maintain a kind of divid- 

 ed sway over many fair and fertile tracts, that 

 seem, in other respects, formed for the comfort and 

 convenience of social life. 



